Why The Greek Islands Should Be On Your Bucket List

I love Greece. The only Island I have visited is Zante and that was about 20 years ago with an ex-girlfriend which I loved but I’ve always been fascinated by the unspoilt Hellenic Cyclades islands of Sifnos, Milos, Naxos, Paros and Anti Paros. The scenery alone from the photography I’ve enjoyed browsing through in travel books and magazines is worth making them on to any bucket list. A recent survey among travellers around the world points out I’m not alone in my lack of knowledge of these particular Greek islands and so I did a little research. This is my brief guide to these Hellenic islands.

Location

The Cyclades comprise about 220 islands, the major ones being Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Eschati, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Folegandros, Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Syros, Tinos, and Thira or Santoríni. The name “Cyclades” refers to the islands forming a circle (“circular islands”) around the sacred island of Delos. Most of the smaller islands are uninhabited. Many travellers believe that Mediterranean Sea are the waters surrounding all the islands, which is probably due to its proximity. Even though every Greek island has great beaches, it’s good to bear in mind that Ionian Sea and Aegean Sea are also there. In this latter one we can find some of the most touristic islands like Mykonos, Santorini and Ios.

Cuisine

Greek food is amazing, simple as that. The rivalry between Greek and Italian cuisine is well know all over the World, mainly due to the fact that because so much of Italian food is based on Greek ideas. Greek cuisine has brought the world some of the most delicious dishes including lasagne, wine, olive oil, pizza and of course…the doughnut! If your a cheese lover then the Greek islands are one of the best places in the World for cheese. There is feta cheese, Mizithra or Galotiri which are all present in most greek sauces, pastas and salads. There are also cooking classes available across the islands so you can combine your holiday in Greece with learning to cook authentic delicious Greek food.

Picturesque

Simple and conservative, but beautiful and unique. All travellers recognise the aesthetics of the local architecture, especially windmills, whitewashed houses and blue domed churches. Their love is so devoted that lots of couples decide to celebrate their weddings in one of these islands (Sifnos is one of the most popular) and invite all their loves ones to enjoy luxury holidays in Greece. I’m hoping one day I’ll get the chance with my wedding photography business to shoot a destination wedding in one of the Greek islands, hopefully Sifnos – what a romantic place to get married!